When to Plant Bee Balm in Ness County, KS
Bee balm is a native perennial herb with shaggy, scarlet flower heads that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Its leaves make an aromatic tea reminiscent of Earl Grey.
Ness County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 178 days.
At an elevation of 668 feet, Ness County receives approximately 26.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season.
Ness County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Ness County, KS
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Harvest | July 28 | Jul 28 – Oct 13 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
178 days
Growing Tips for Ness County
Start from seed, divisions, or transplants. Provide good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. Deadhead spent flowers for reblooming. Divide clumps every 3 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Bee Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Bee Balm in Ness County, KS?
Ness County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Ness County, KS?
Ness County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Ness County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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